• Inflammation of inner ear
• Symptoms may include sudden onset of dizziness, nausea, vomiting or involuntary movement of the eyes
• Cause unknown or may be associated with viral or bacterial infections
• Cannot be spread from person to person
• Affects males and females but more common in females
• Can occur at any age but more common in middle age
• May be mild to severe
• Not life threatening but episodes can greatly impact function and quality of life

• Avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol
• Rest in bed until dizziness has passed

FOR DIZZINESS

• Use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery
• Immediately sit or lie down when dizzy
• Prevent falls by walking carefully and with a cane if necessary and by using good lighting

FOR NAUSEA

• Drink clear or ice-cold drinks (avoid drinks high in sugar)
• Eat light, bland foods (crackers or plain bread)
• Avoid fried, greasy, or sweet foods
• Eat slowly and eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Do not mix hot and cold foods
• Avoid activity after eating
• Over-the-counter medicine (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Cyclizine
  • Dimenhydrinate
  • Meclizine